EP2966731A1 - Contact element and application of such a contact element in a plug-in connection - Google Patents

Abstract

A contact element (10) has a spring-elastic carrier strip (11) extending in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of web elements (17) arranged one behind the other in the carrier strip longitudinal direction and secured to the carrier strip (11) perpendicularly to the carrier strip plane to mediate the electrical contact between two opposite surfaces. A more compact construction is achieved in that the web elements (17) are designed to be asymmetrical with respect to a center plane (M1) extending in the carrier tape longitudinal direction.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to the field of electrical connection technology. It relates to a contact element according to the preamble of claim 1 and the application of such a contact element in a plug connection.

STATE OF THE ART

Contact elements in the form of contact blades have long been known and are used to bridge larger gaps between two surfaces to be electrically connected safely and permanently and at sufficiently high currents. Basis of such contact elements or lamella is a Carrier tape on which in the carrier tape longitudinal direction one behind the other a number of web elements are arranged, which protrude from the tape plane and can be resiliently pushed back by torsion in the tape plane. In the case of the first contact lamellae, the web elements mediating the contact were formed directly from the band material of the carrier band by means of a stamping / bending process (see, for example, US Pat US-A-3,453,587 ). These are therefore one-component contact elements.

The disadvantage was not only the limitation in the geometric dimensioning of the web elements, which were formed from the carrier tape itself by punching, but also the limitation in the selection of the carrier tape material, which had to have good spring properties and good electrical conductivity and contact ability simultaneously.

It has therefore been proposed later to provide carrier tape and web elements as separate parts (two-component contact elements), so that the carrier tape could be optimized for the spring function, while the carrier elements attached to the web elements were optimized in terms of electrical properties. At the same time, larger contact distances could be bridged by an increased freedom in the dimensions of the web elements. Such contact elements or contact blades are for example from the US-A-4,456,325 , as well as from the EP-A2-0 254 770 or from the EP-A1-1 119 077 known.

In the latter document ( EP-A1-1 119 077 ) are used as web elements V-shaped bent contact clip, which are equipped at the free leg ends with clamping feet and attached to the carrier tape. The clamp feet make electrical contact with the one contact surface on the underside via one contact point each. The other, opposite contact surface is contacted by the tip of the contact clip at a further contact point. The plug in the front lying leg of the contact clip is used when inserting the connector, the contact bracket gently sliding towards to let the carrier belt to compress. The leg lying in the insertion direction of the contact clip is no comparable function. However, it increases the width of the contact element to the detriment of compactness.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a contact element in the form of a contact blade, which has the advantages of the two-component contact elements and at the same time can be made more compact or transmits more power with smaller outer dimensions.

The object is solved by the entirety of the features of claim 1. Essential for the invention is that the electrical contact mediating individual web elements are formed asymmetrically to a center plane extending in the carrier tape longitudinal center plane. This makes it possible, with a smaller width, to increase the number of contact points per unit length considerably.

An embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the web elements each have two transversely spaced from the carrier tape longitudinal direction clamping feet, with which they are attached to the carrier tape, and with which they electrically contact one of the two opposite surfaces, and that the web elements each one having associated with the clamping feet, triangular contact wings, the wing tip is disposed on one side of the median plane and the other of the two opposite surfaces electrically contacted.

In particular, the carrier tape for the web carrier in the longitudinal direction of successively arranged web elements each have two of a extending in the carrier tape longitudinal direction web to opposite directions transversely outgoing, acting as torsion spring arms on the free Ends the respective web element is fixed with its clamping feet, wherein the carrier tape in the longitudinal direction of successively arranged web elements are arranged overlapping.

Preferably, the contact blades are substantially in the shape of a right triangle in which the clamping feet are located at the ends of a catheter and the wing tip is formed by the other catheter and the hypotenuse.

Another embodiment is characterized in that the web elements in the region of the clamping feet each engage with a contact lug in a clamping manner around the carrier tape or the spring arms.

In addition to the clamping attachment of the web elements on the carrier tape or the spring arms may be provided a positive connection between the carrier tape or the spring arms and the clamping feet, wherein for the production of the positive connection in the carrier tape or the spring arms holes are provided, in which the clamping feet intervene with a corresponding imprint.

To facilitate the installation laterally projecting guide tabs may be formed at the free ends of the spring arms on the clamping feet.

Preferably, a guide tab is integrally formed on the free end of a single spring arm, which is preferably laterally beyond a clamping foot only on one side.

A further embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the contact element has only one row of web elements arranged one behind the other in the carrier tape longitudinal direction, and the associated carrier tape correspondingly only one extending in the carrier tape longitudinal direction, in the Center of the carrier tape extending web with two in opposite directions transversely outgoing, acting as torsion spring arms comprises.

An increase in the density of the contact points can be achieved if the contact element has two parallel rows of carrier web longitudinally arranged one behind the other web elements, if the associated carrier tape according to two parallel extending in carrier tape longitudinal webs with each two thereof in opposite directions transversely outgoing, comprising spring arms acting as torsion springs, and when the spring arms coming in from both webs are connected in pairs at the ends via a central connection. With particular advantage, the center connection is designed so that in the direction of insertion in each case rear web element pre-springs during the insertion process, and in the fully inserted state independently establishes an electrical contact between the two opposite surfaces.

In particular, the web elements of both parallel rows are formed and arranged in mirror image to a center plane lying between the rows.

It is particularly favorable when the web elements each have two clamping feet which are spaced apart from one another transversely to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, with which they are fastened to the carrier tape and with which they electrically contact one of the two opposing faces, and if the web elements are connected to the clamping feet, respectively. have triangular contact blades whose vane tips are arranged on both sides and in the immediate vicinity of the intermediate plane between the rows and electrically contact the other of the two opposite surfaces.

An application of the contact element in a plug connector and a socket comprehensive connector is characterized in that the contact element in a groove on the outside of the plug or on the Inside the sleeve is arranged such that the wing tip is arranged in the rear direction of insertion.

If the contact element transversely outwardly projecting guide tabs, it is advantageously performed with the guide tabs in lateral undercuts on the groove.

Another preferred application of the contact element is characterized in that the contact element has transversely outwardly projecting guide straps. The guide tabs are preferably protruded on one side over the web elements. The contact element is guided with the guide tab in a single lateral undercut at the puncture. The guide tabs are arranged in a row, wherein the row of guide tabs protrudes into the undercut.

BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES

Fig. 1

in verschiedenen Teilfiguren 1(a) bis 1(g) verschiedene Einzelheiten und Ansichten eines Kontaktelements mit nur einer Reihe von asymmetrischen Stegelementen gemäss einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;

Fig. 2

in verschiedenen Teilfiguren 2(a) bis 2(c) den Einbau des Kontaktelements nach Fig. 1 mit und ohne seitliche Führungslaschen;

Fig. 3

den Vergleich der Kontaktelemente nach Fig. 2 mit einem Kontaktelement aus dem Stand der Technik;

Fig. 4

in verschiedenen Teilfiguren 4(a) bis 4(g) verschiedene Einzelheiten und Ansichten eines Kontaktelements mit zwei parallelen Reihen von asymmetrischen Stegelementen gemäss einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;

Fig. 5

in verschiedenen Teilfiguren 5(a) bis 5(c) den Einbau des Kontaktelements nach Fig. 4 mit und ohne seitliche Führungslaschen;

Fig. 6

den Vergleich der Kontaktelemente nach Fig. 4 mit zwei Kontaktelementen aus dem Stand der Technik;

Fig. 7

in mehreren Teilfiguren 7(a) bis 7(c) den Steckvorgang bei einer mit dem Kontaktelement nach Fig. 4 ausgestatteten Steckverbindung, wobei das Kontaktelement auf dem Stecker angeordnet ist;

Fig. 8

in mehreren Teilfiguren 8(a) bis 8(c) den Steckvorgang bei einer mit dem Kontaktelement nach Fig. 4 ausgestatteten Steckverbindung, wobei das Kontaktelement in der Buchse angeordnet ist;

Fig. 9

in zwei Teilfiguren 9(a), 9(b) den Steckvorgang bei einer mit dem Kontaktelement nach Fig. 1 ausgestatteten Steckverbindung, wobei das Kontaktelement auf dem Stecker (9a) oder in der Buchse (9b) angeordnet ist;

Fig. 10

die tolerierbare Winkelabweichung (α) bei einer Steckverbindung nach Fig. 7;

Fig. 11

eine Ansicht eines Kontaktelements mit nur einer Reihe von asymmetrischen Stegelementen gemäss einem dritten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;

Fig. 12

in zwei Teilfiguren 12(a) bis 12(b) verschiedene Einzelheiten und Ansichten eines einzubauenden bzw. eingebauten Kontaktelements in einem Stecker; und

Fig. 13

in zwei Teilfiguren 13(a) bis 13(b) verschiedene Einzelheiten und Ansichten eines einzubauenden bzw. eingebauten Kontaktelements in einer Buchse.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments in conjunction with the drawings. Show it

Fig. 1

in various sub-figures 1 (a) to 1 (g) different details and views of a contact element with only a series of asymmetric web elements according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2

in different sub-figures 2 (a) to 2 (c) after the installation of the contact element according to Fig. 1 with and without lateral guide straps;

Fig. 3

the comparison of the contact elements after Fig. 2 with a contact element of the prior art;

Fig. 4

in different sub-figures 4 (a) to 4 (g) different details and views of a contact element with two parallel rows of asymmetric web elements according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5

in various subfigures 5 (a) to 5 (c) after the installation of the contact element according to Fig. 4 with and without lateral guide straps;

Fig. 6

the comparison of the contact elements after Fig. 4 with two contact elements of the prior art;

Fig. 7

in several sub-figures 7 (a) to 7 (c) the mating process at one with the contact element after Fig. 4 equipped connector, wherein the contact element is arranged on the plug;

Fig. 8

in several sub-figures 8 (a) to 8 (c) the mating process at one with the contact element after Fig. 4 equipped connector, wherein the contact element is arranged in the socket;

Fig. 9

in two sub-figures 9 (a), 9 (b) the insertion process at one with the contact element after Fig. 1 equipped connector, wherein the contact element on the plug (9a) or in the socket (9b) is arranged;

Fig. 10

the tolerable angular deviation (α) in a plug-in connection Fig. 7 ;

Fig. 11

a view of a contact element with only one row of asymmetric web elements according to a third embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12

in two sub-figures 12 (a) to 12 (b) different details and views of a built-in or installed contact element in a plug; and

Fig. 13

in two sub-figures 13 (a) to 13 (b) various details and views of a built-in or installed contact element in a socket.

WAYS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In Fig. 1 different details and views of a contact element with only one row of asymmetric web elements according to a first embodiment of the invention are shown in different sub-figures 1 (a) to 1 (g). The contact element 10 consists of a longitudinally extending, resilient carrier tape 11 of a suitable metal sheet and a plurality of carrier tape in the longitudinal direction arranged one behind the other, on the carrier tape 11 perpendicular to the carrier tape plane einfedemd fixed web elements 17 (FIGS. Fig. 1 (g) ) for mediating the electrical contact between two opposite surfaces (26, 27 and 46, 47 in Fig. 9 ).

The web elements 17, which consist of an electrically highly conductive material (eg, Cu) and are preferably surface-finished (eg silver-plated), are connected to a center plane M1 (FIG. Fig. 1 (b) ) formed asymmetrically. They each have two transverse to the carrier tape longitudinal direction spaced clamping feet 18, 19, with which they are attached to the carrier tape 11, and with which they one of the two opposing surfaces 26, 27 and 46, 47 ( Fig. 9 ) contact electrically.

The web elements 17 each have one with the clamping feet 18, 19 connected, triangular contact blade 20, the wing tip 21 is disposed on one side of the median plane M1 ( Fig. 1 (b) ) and the other of the two opposite surfaces 26, 27 and 46, 47 electrically contacted. The triangular shape of the contact wings 20 results in the desired asymmetry of the web elements 17. The run of the wing tip 21 to a clamping foot 18 slope 22 leads to gentle deflection of the web elements 17 when the contact element according to Fig. 9 is installed in a plug connection 26, 27 and 46,47.

The spring behavior of the web elements is achieved in that the carrier tape 11 for the web elements 17 each two extending from one in the carrier tape longitudinal direction web 12 to opposite directions transversely outgoing, acting as torsion spring arms 13,14, at the free ends of the respective web element 17 is attached with its clamping feet 18, 19. The slightly relaxed in the relaxed state spring arms 13, 14 (height h1 in Fig. 1 (g) ) are arranged so closely behind one another in the carrier tape longitudinal direction that the web elements 17 strongly overlap, thus resulting in a high contact and current density per unit length of the contact element. The contact element 10 can according to Fig. 1 (g) compensate for a maximum height h2 between two surfaces to be contacted; the minimum height h3 is reached when the web elements 17 are above each other like scales.

To construct the contact element 10, the individual web elements 17 (FIG. Fig. 1 (b) ) on the prepared carrier tape 11 (FIG. Fig. 1 (a) ) fixed by the spring arms 13, 14 in the region of the clamping feet 18,19 by bending a contact tab 23 (Fig. Fig. 1 (f) ) are trapped. By clamping a frictional connection between the carrier tape 11 and the web elements 17 is produced. In addition to the clamping attachment of the web elements 17 on Carrier tape 11 and the spring arms 13,14 may be a positive connection between the carrier tape 11 and the spring arms 13,14 and the clamping feet 18, 19 are provided. This can be done, for example, by providing holes 16 in the carrier tape 11 or the spring arms 13, 14 at the corresponding points, into which the clamping feet 18, 19 engage by means of a corresponding embossing of the contact tabs 23. This embossing is not shown in the drawing. Other types of positive closures are also conceivable.

So that the contact element 10 at the installation ( Fig. 2 (b) ; Fig. 9 ) is held securely, at the free ends of the spring arms 13, 14 on the clamping feet 18, 19 laterally projecting guide plates 15 may be formed ( Fig. 1 (a), (d) (e) ). If the contact element 10 is arranged in a recess 28 on the outside of the plug 27 or on the inside of the socket 46 of a plug connection, it is guided with the guide plates 15 in lateral undercuts 29 at the recess 28 ( Fig. 2 . 9 ). It is according to Fig. 3 Also, a contact element 10 'without lateral guide plates conceivable, according to Fig. 2 (a) is used with a small socket installation in a simple recess 28 without undercut.

Instead of the asymmetrical single-bridge variant of the Fig. 1 to 3 and 9 but in the context of the invention, a symmetrical two-bar variant according to Fig. 4 to 8 and 10 be provided. This doubles the number of contact points. In this case, the carrier tape 31 (FIG. Fig. 4 (a) ) of the contact element 30 practically from two parallel Trägerbändem 11 according to Fig. 1 (a) , with webs 32, 32 'and outgoing from the webs spring arms 34, 34' and 35, 35 ', in which the two webs 32, 32' inwardly outgoing spring arms 34 ', 35' in pairs at the ends via an in a center plane M3 lying central connection 33 are connected to each other.

When contact element 30 two parallel rows of carrier tape in the longitudinal direction of successively arranged web elements 36, 37 are provided, each of which has two clamping feet 38, 39 and 42, 43 which are spaced apart from each other transversely to the carrier tape longitudinal direction ( Fig. 4 (b) ), with which they are attached to the carrier tape 31, and with which they electrically contact one of the two opposite surfaces at two contact points. The web elements 36, 37 of both parallel rows are formed and arranged in mirror image to a median plane M3 lying between the rows.

The web elements 36, 37 each have with the clamping feet 38, 39 and 42, 43 connected, triangular contact clip 20, the wing tips 40, 44 are arranged on both sides and in the immediate vicinity of lying between the rows center plane M3 and the other of the Contact two opposite surfaces, each with a contact point electrically. Preferably, the contact wings 20 are substantially in the shape of a right triangle in which the clamp legs 38, 39 and 42, 43, respectively, are located at the ends of a catheter of the triangle and the wing tips 40 and 44, respectively, through the other and the hypotenuse of the triangle is formed. The contact wings 20 of the two adjacent web elements 38, 39 are arranged in mirror image to each other, wherein the median plane M3 acts as a mirror plane.

How to get in Fig. 1 (f) and (e) and Fig. 4 (f) and (e) recognizes the web elements 17 and 36, 37 along the slope 22 and 41, 45 and the wing tip 21 and 40, 44 a rounding 25. This rounding facilitates the pivoting of the web elements 17 and 36, 37 during compression in the course the plug-in process ( Fig. 7-9 ). The plug-in process is additionally facilitated by a rounding 48 or 49 on the contact piece of the plug-in connection, which slips when plugged with an edge on the slope of the front web elements.

The peculiarity of the web elements 36, 37 interacting via the common carrier tape 31 in the case of the contact element 30 of FIG Fig. 4 is in the FIGS. 7 and 8 to recognize that the insertion process in a plug connection with the contact element 31: By the mechanical connection of acting as torsion springs, inwardly directed spring arms 34 'and 35' in the Center plane M3 (middle connection 33) is given a coupling of the two springs. First, when inserting the front web elements of the contact element 31 are pivoted einfedemd to the carrier tape out ( Fig. 7 (a) -> 7 (b) respectively. Fig. 8 (a) -> 8 (b) ). About the central connection 33, this pivotal movement is at least partially transmitted to the respectively underlying, adjacent web element, which also springs. Thereby, the relative to the contact element moving contact piece (26 in Fig. 7 ; 47 in Fig. 8 ) easily slide over the wing tip of the rear web elements.

Another advantage of the displaced in the middle wing tips of the asymmetric web elements is made Fig. 10 clearly: When inserting a larger angular deviation between the contact pieces (angle α) can be tolerated.

A comparison of the contact elements 10 and 10 'with a known contact element ST1 of the LA-CU type of the applicant in Fig. 3 shows that (with approximately the same width) can achieve significantly more contact points per unit length and thus a greater current density with the solution according to the application.

A comparison of the contact elements 30 and 30 'with the known contact element ST1 of the LA-CU type of the applicant and from the EP-A1-1 119 077 known contact element ST2 in Fig. 6 shows that (with reduced width compared to ST2) with the application according to the solution significantly more contact points per unit length and thus a greater current density can be achieved. Compared to the ST1, the width is slightly lower and the number of contact points per unit length significantly increased.

• Das neue Kontaktelement zur elektrischen Kontaktierung zweier leitenden metallischen Oberflächen zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass zwei Komponenten, hergestellt aus zwei verschiedenen Werkstoffen, einzeln für mechanische und elektrische Eigenschaften verantwortlich sind. Die spezielle Geometrie des Kontaktelementes sorgt dafür, dass auf kleinem Raum sowohl elektrische Eigenschaften wie Toleranzaufnahme gegenüber bestehenden Kontaktelementen deutlich verbessert werden.

In summary, the following can be said:

• The new contact element for electrical contacting of two conductive metallic surfaces is characterized by the fact that two components, made of two different materials, individually for mechanical and electrical properties are responsible. The special geometry of the contact element ensures that in a small space both electrical properties such as tolerance absorption compared to existing contact elements are significantly improved.

• Die asymmetrische Einzelsteg-Variante zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass der obere Kontaktpunkt zum Gegenstück nicht in der Mitte der Bandbreite des Trägerbandes liegt, wodurch ein grösserer Arbeitsbereich auf kleinem Raum erzielt wird.
• Die symmetrische Zwei-Steg-Variante ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zwei asymmetrische Stegelemente mit gleicher Geometrie wie bei der Einzeisteg-Variante zueinander geneigt nebeneinander auf ein federndes Band aufgebracht sind, dass die beiden oberen Kontaktpunkte zum Gegenstück in der Mitte der Bandbreite des Trägerbandes liegen, und dass beide Stegelemente einzeln federn und sich durch Kopplung über die Mittelverbindung gleichzeitig stark genug beeinflussen, um eine harmonische Einfederung von der Seite (Stecken) zu gewährleisten.

There are two variants of the contact element:

• The asymmetrical single web variant is characterized in that the upper contact point to the counterpart is not in the middle of the bandwidth of the carrier tape, whereby a larger work area is achieved in a small space.
• The symmetrical two-web variant is characterized in that two asymmetrical web elements with the same geometry as in the single-web variant are inclined to one another next to each other on a resilient band, that the two upper contact points are the counterpart in the middle of the bandwidth of the carrier tape, and that both web elements spring individually and at the same time strongly influence by coupling over the central connection strong enough to ensure a harmonious deflection from the side (plug).

• Optimierte mechanische und elektrische Eigenschaften durch Auftrennung in federndes Trägerband und leitendes Stegelement.
• Kleines Raster durch ausgeklügelte, stapelbare Geometrie der Stegelemente bzw. Kontaktbügel.
• Vernünftig grosser Arbeitsbereich zum Ausgleich grosser Toleranzen und Winkelabweichungen.
• Bei der Zwei-Steg-Variante erlauben die beiden zueinander geneigten Stegelemente eine noch grössere Winkelabweichung als bei zwei Elementen der Einzel-Steg-Variante.
• Optimiertes Verhältnis zwischen Arbeitsbereich und Breite.
• Dreipunktkontaktierung (zwei Kontaktpunkte unten, einer oben) auf jedem Einzel-Stegelement.
• Geringe Breite dank mittigem Drehgelenk.
• Stark erhöhte Stromdichte, besonders bei der Zwei-Steg-Variante.
• Verbesserte Einbaumöglichkeiten.
• Einbau in Buchsen und Stecker möglich.
• Das Anbringen des oberen Kontaktpunkts zum Gegenstück an der einen Seite (anstatt in der Mitte) des Stegelements bzw. Kontaktbügels erhöht den Arbeitsbereich bei geringerer Breite. Dadurch optimiertes Verhältnis zwischen Arbeitsbereich und Breite bei unveränderter Steilheit des Kontaktsteges.
• Die Geometrie der Stegelemente bzw. Kontaktbügel erlaubt ein Stapeln derselben. Dadurch ist ein kleineres Raster möglich.
• Bei der Zwei-Steg-Variante erlauben die beiden Kontaktpunkte in der Mitte der Bandbreite eine optimierte Winkeltoleranz-Aufnahme.
• Bei der Zwei-Steg-Variante sorgt die Mittelverbindung der beiden Drehgelenke dafür, dass das zweite Stegelement beim Einfedervorgang von einer Seite (Stecken) vom ersten Stegelement vor-eingefedert wird. Dadurch ist ein harmonischer, ruckelfreier Steckvorgang gewährleistet.
• Gleichzeitig sind bei der Zwei-Steg-Variante beide Stegelemente unabhängig genug, um zwei obere Kontaktpunkte zu garantieren. Dadurch wird die Kontakt- und somit Stromdichte stark erhöht.

The new contact element is characterized by the following characteristics and advantages.

• Optimized mechanical and electrical properties by separation into resilient carrier tape and conductive web element.
• Small grid through ingenious, stackable geometry of the web elements or contact clip.
• Reasonably large work area to compensate for large tolerances and angular deviations.
• In the case of the two-bar variant, the two bar elements which are inclined to one another allow an even greater angular deviation than with two elements of the single bar variant.
• Optimized ratio between working area and width.
• Three point contact (two contact points at the bottom, one at the top) on each single web element.
• Small width thanks to central pivot.
• Greatly increased current density, especially in the two-bridge variant.
• Improved installation options.
• Installation in sockets and plugs possible.
• Attaching the upper contact point to the counterpart on one side (rather than in the middle) of the stirrup increases the working area at a smaller width. This optimized ratio between working area and width with unchanged steepness of the contact bar.
• The geometry of the web elements or contact clip allows stacking the same. This makes a smaller grid possible.
• In the two-bar variant, the two contact points in the middle of the bandwidth allow an optimized angle tolerance recording.
• In the two-bar variant, the central connection of the two rotary joints ensures that the second bar element is pre-spring-loaded from one side (plug-in) of the first bar element during the spring-deflection process. This ensures a harmonious, smooth insertion process.
• At the same time, with the two-bar version, both bar elements are independent enough to guarantee two upper contact points. As a result, the contact and thus current density is greatly increased.

A third embodiment of a contact element, for which the above-mentioned advantages continue to apply, is described in US Pat Fig. 11 shown. Identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals. Furthermore, features or sub-features of the already mentioned embodiments can be combined with the following embodiments as desired to other variants.

This in FIG. 11 shown third embodiment of the contact element 100 essentially comprises a carrier tape 111 and a plurality of web members 117 protruding from the carrier tape. The carrier tape 111 and the web members 117 are configured essentially analogously to the embodiments already set out above.

The contact element 100 accordingly comprises a spring-elastic carrier strip 111 extending in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of web elements 117 arranged one behind the other in the carrier tape longitudinal direction and secured to the carrier tape perpendicularly to the carrier tape plane to mediate the electrical contact between two opposing surfaces. Preferably, a guide plate 115 is integrally formed on the free end of a single spring arm 113, which is preferably laterally beyond a clamping foot 118 of the web element 117 on one side.

The one-sided formed guide tab 115 can represent with the described features, one of the other mentioned features (in particular of the asymmetrical design of the web elements) independent invention.

Alternatively, it can also be said that in the third embodiment, the length of the guide plates 115 is different from the length of the guide plates of the preceding embodiments. The guide plates 115 are formed as stated above at the free ends of the spring arms. The guide tabs 115, which protrude from a first side of the carrier tape 111, are longer equipped than the guide tabs, which project from a second side of the carrier tape 111. For example, the first side is the side which is right of the center axis M of the carrier tape 111, in which case the second side is the side which is to the left of the center axis M.

Preferably, the web elements 117 are arranged on the carrier tape 111 such that the bevel 122 faces the longer guide tongue 115, and that the blade tip 121 faces the shorter guide tongue. In other words, that means that the longer guide tab 115 on the side of the slope 122 over the width B of the web member 117 substantially protrudes perpendicular to the central axis M. In other words, it can also be said that the guide lug 115 integrally formed on the free end of the spring arm 113 extends laterally beyond the clamping foot 118.

Alternatively, the web members 117 may be reversed so that the longer guide tab 115 protrudes on the wing tip 121 side.

The shorter guide plate is preferably designed with respect to its length such that it does not protrude beyond the width B of the web elements 117. Alternatively, the arrangement of the shorter guide strap can be dispensed with, or the shorter guide strap 115 can have a length such that it extends over the width B of the web elements 117. In the latter case, the guide tab would therefore extend on both sides.

In a general form, it can be said that the longer guide tab projects beyond the width B of the web element 117 on at least one side of the contact element. As a result, the maximum width of the contact element 100 is increased by the protruding length L of the longer guide element 115. The maximum width of the contact element is accordingly composed of the width B of the web element 117 and the protruding length L of the guide element 115.

In the Figures 12a and 12b For example, a cylindrical plug 127 and a socket 126 are shown. In this case, the cylindrical plug 127 is equipped with an inventive L-shaped groove, which comprises a recess 128 with a single undercut 129, for receiving a contact element mentioned in this application. Alternatively, other contact elements, which are known for example from the prior art, are also used in the inventive recess 128.

This means, in a general formulation, that the contact element 100 has a guide lug 115 projecting transversely outwards, the guide lug 115 projecting on the web element 117 in particular on one side, and the contact element 100 with the guide lug 115 in a single lateral undercut 129 in the recess 128 is guided. The contact element 100 lies in the recess 128, wherein the guide tab 115 protrudes into the undercut 129.

In the Figures 12a and 12b For example, the region in which the groove 128 is disposed is shown as partially sectioned, with the cut extending centrally through the cylindrical plug 127. The groove 128 extends from the surface 1271 of the cylindrical plug 127 into the latter. The recess 128 is bounded by a first side wall 1280, a second side wall 1281 and a support surface 1282. The recess 128 has a rectangular cross-section, which has a depth TE and a width BE. The depth TE is selected such that portions of the web members 117 project beyond the surface 1271 of the plug 127.

Furthermore, the recess 128 has only one undercut 129, which extends into one of the side walls 1280, 1281. The undercut 129 is thus arranged on one side on the recess 128. In the present embodiment, the undercut 129 extends into the second side wall 1281. The undercut is arranged such that it extends in the direction of the support surface 1282 in the corresponding side wall 1280, 1281, wherein the undercut 129 advantageously substantially aligned with the support surface 1282th is. The undercut 129 has a depth T seen from the side wall. Preferably, the depth T corresponds approximately to the length L of the protruding part of the guide plates 115. Due to the arrangement of the undercut 129, the resulting groove may also be referred to as L-shaped.

In the FIG. 12a shows how a contact element, here the contact element 100, in the inventive L-groove or in the recess 128 with the undercut 129 is introduced. In this case, the contact element 100 is inserted obliquely into the recess 128, that parts of the protruding guide tabs 115 can protrude into the undercut 129. Subsequently, the contact element 100 is pushed so far in the direction of the undercut 129 until parts of the contact element are present on the second side wall 1281. In a further step, the contact element 100 can then be pressed in the direction of the bearing surface 1282. As soon as the contact element 100 lies in the recess 128 and in the undercut 129, this is completely installed. This condition is in the FIG. 12b shown.

Also in the FIG. 12b It is shown how the plug 127 can be inserted into the socket 126. If there is play between the contact element 100 and the recess 128 with the undercut 129, the contact element 100 is pushed in the direction of the first side surface 1280, which acts as a stop in this case. The width BE of the recess 128 is therefore to be dimensioned such that it is by no means wider than the maximum width B of the contact element 100. This ensures that the contact element 100 is not released from the secure recording of the single step.

In terms of FIG. 12b It may also be appreciated that the undercut may alternatively be disposed in the first sidewall 1280. If the contact element in the same direction, so that the blade tip 21 is arranged in the rear insertion direction, to be installed, the guide plates 115 would then extend over the other side of the web member 117 and the Klemmfusses 119.

A first advantage of the described recess 128 with undercut 129 is the fact that the contact element 100 can be mechanically held by its internal stress and by the guide tab 115 in the puncture.

The recess 128 according to the invention with undercut 129 or the L-shaped groove is particularly advantageous, since it is not necessary to provide an insertion path through which the contact element can be inserted into the groove. As a result, the production of the groove for receiving the contact element 100 can be made much simpler and thus faster and less expensive. Furthermore, the insertion of the contact element 100 is easier than with other grooves. Furthermore, it is also possible to dispense with securing elements, such as retaining rings, etc.

As an alternative to the embodiment described above, in which the recess 128 was shown with an undercut 129 on a cylindrical plug, the recess 128 with undercut 129 according to the invention can also be used with other elements.

The Figures 13a and 13b show the arrangement of the recess 128 with undercut 129 in a socket 126. Like parts are given the same reference numerals. The recess 128 is recessed in the surface 1261 of the socket arranged. Again, the L-shaped groove is particularly easy and inexpensive to produce.

In further embodiments, it is also conceivable that the L-shaped groove, so the recess 128 with the undercut 129, not only in a cylindrical surface, but also in a flat surface can be arranged.

In another embodiment, it is conceivable, for example, in FIGS. 5 and 6 shown contact elements, in particular the double-row contact elements 30, 30 'to be adapted such that they also have only a single guide plate which protrudes on one side over the clamping foot or on the web element.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10,10 ', 100

Contact element (contact lamella)

11,31,111

carrier tape

12,112

web

13:14, 113, 114

spring arm

15,115

guide tab

16

hole

17,117

web element

18,19,118,119

clamping foot

20, 120

Contact wings

21,40,44, 121

pinion

22,41,45, 122

slope

23, 123

Contact tab

24

bend

25

curve

26, 126

Rifle

1261

Surface of the socket

27, 127

plug

1271

Surface of the plug

28, 128

puncture

1280

first sidewall

1281

second side wall

1282

bearing surface

29.129

undercut

30.30 '

Contact element (contact lamella)

32.32 '

web

33

medium connection

34.34 '

spring arm

35.35 '

spring arm

36.37

web element

38.39

clamping foot

42.43

clamping foot

46

Rifle

47

plug

48.49

curve

α

angle

h1, .., h3

height

M1, M2, M3

Middle plane (web elements)

ST1, ST2

State of the art

Claims (17)

Contact element (10, 10 '; 30, 30'; 100) with a longitudinally extending, resilient carrier tape (11, 31, 111) and a plurality of carrier tape longitudinally arranged one behind the other, on the carrier tape (11, 31, 111 ) web elements (17, 36, 37, 117) fixed in a spring-biased manner to the carrier belt plane for mediating the electrical contact between two opposing surfaces (26, 27; 46, 47, 1261, 1271), characterized in that the web elements (17; 36, 37, 117) are formed asymmetrically to a longitudinal direction in the carrier tape longitudinal center plane (M1, M2). Contact element according to claim 1, characterized in that said web elements comprise contact wings, which have the shape of a triangle, wherein the contact wings are in communication with the carrier tape. Contact element according to claim 2, characterized in that said triangle is a substantially right-angled triangle, and in that said triangle is connected via clamping feet to the carrier tape. Contact element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the web elements (17; 36, 37, 117) each have two clamping feet (18, 19; 38, 39; 42, 43, 118, 119) which are spaced apart from one another transversely to the carrier tape longitudinal direction with which they are fastened to the carrier strip (11, 31, 111) and with which they electrically contact one of the two opposite surfaces (26, 27; 46, 47, 1261, 1271), and that the web elements (17; 37, 117) each having a with the clamping feet (18, 19, 38, 39, 42, 43, 118, 119) connected, triangular contact wings (20, 120), the wing tip (21, 40, 44, 121) on a Side of the center plane (M1, M2) is arranged and the other of the two opposite surfaces (26, 27; 46, 47, 1261, 1271) electrically contacted. Contact element according to claim 4, characterized in that the carrier tape (11, 31, 111) for the carrier tape in the longitudinal direction one behind the other arranged web elements (17; 36, 37, 117) in each case two of a extending in the carrier tape longitudinal direction web (12; 32, 32 ', 112) to opposite directions transversely outgoing, acting as torsion spring arms (13, 14, 34, 34 ', 35, 35', 113, 114), at the free ends of which the respective web element (17, 36, 37, 117) is fastened with its clamping feet (18, 19, 38, 39, 42, 43, 118, 119) is, and that in the carrier tape longitudinal direction successively arranged web elements (17; 36, 37, 117) are arranged overlapping. Contact element according to one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the contact blades (20, 120) have substantially the shape of a right-angled triangle, in which the clamping feet (18, 19; 38, 39; 42, 43, 118, 119) are arranged at the ends of a catheter and the wing tip (21, 40, 44, 121) is formed by the other catheter and the hypotenuse
and / or in that the web elements (17, 36, 37, 117) in the region of the clamping feet (18, 19, 38, 39, 42, 43, 118, 119) each have a contact lug (23, 123) clamping around the carrier tape (18). 11, 31, 111) or the spring arms (13, 14, 34, 34 ', 35, 35', 113, 114) engage. Contact element according to claim 6, characterized in that in addition to the clamping attachment of the web elements (17, 36, 37, 117) on the carrier tape (11, 31, 111) or the spring arms (13, 14, 34, 34 ', 35, 35 ', 113, 114) form a positive connection between the carrier tape (11, 31, 111) or the spring arms (13, 14, 34, 34', 35, 35 ', 113, 114) and the clamping feet (18, 19; 38, 39; 42, 43, 118, 119) is provided. Contact element according to Claim 7, in that holes (16) are provided in the carrier strip (11, 31, 111) or the spring arms (13, 14; 34, 34 ', 35, 35', 113, 114) for producing the positive fit, in which the clamping feet (18, 19, 38, 39, 42, 43, 118, 119) engage by a corresponding embossing. Contact element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the free ends of the spring arms (13, 14, 34, 35) laterally protruding guide tabs (15) via the clamping feet (18, 19; or that at the free end of a spring arm (13, 14, 34, 35, 113, 114) a guide tab (15, 115) is formed, which via a clamping foot (18, 19, 38, 39, 42, 43; 118, 119) is preferably only laterally laterally out. Contact element according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the contact element (10, 100) has only one row of web elements (17, 117) arranged one behind the other in the carrier tape longitudinal direction, and the associated carrier tape (11, 111) correspondingly only one extending in the carrier tape longitudinal direction, in the middle of the carrier tape (11, 111) extending web (12, 112) with two transversely outgoing in opposite directions, acting as torsion spring arms (13, 14, 113, 114). Contact element according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the contact element (30) has two parallel rows of web elements (36, 37) arranged one behind the other in the carrier tape longitudinal direction, such that the associated carrier tape (31) corresponds in parallel to two in carrier tape. Lengthwise extending webs (32, 32 ') each having two thereof in opposite directions transversely outgoing, acting as torsion spring arms (34, 34', 35, 35 ') comprises, and that of both webs (32, 32') inwardly outgoing spring arms (34 ', 35') in pairs at the ends via a central connection (33) are interconnected. Contact element according to claim 11, characterized in that the central connection (33) is designed so that in the insertion direction in each case rear web element (36) pre-springs during insertion and in the fully inserted state independently electrical contact between the two opposite surfaces (26, 27; 46, 47). Contact element according to Claim 12, characterized in that the web elements (36, 37) of both parallel rows are designed and arranged in mirror image relation to a median plane (M3) lying between the rows. Contact element according to Claim 13, characterized in that the web elements (36, 37) each have two clamping feet (38, 39; 42, 43) spaced apart from one another transversely to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, with which they are fastened to the carrier tape (31) and with to which they contact one of the two opposite surfaces (26, 27, 46, 47) electrically, and in that the web elements (36, 37) each have triangular contact wings (20) connected to the clamping feet (38, 39; 42, 43), whose wing tips (40, 44) are arranged on both sides and in the immediate vicinity of the median plane (M3) lying between the rows, and electrically contact the other of the two opposing faces (26, 27; 46, 47). Use of a contact element according to claims 2 and 10 in a connector (27, 47, 127) and a socket (26, 46, 126) comprising a plug connection, characterized in that the contact element (10, 10 ', 100) in a recess ( 28, 128) on the outside of the plug (27, 127) or on the inside of the bushing (46, 126) is arranged such that the wing tip (21, 121) is arranged in the rear insertion direction. Application of a contact element according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the contact element (30, 30 ', 100) in a recess (28, 128) on the outside of the plug (27, 127) or on the inside of the socket ( 46, 126) is arranged. Use according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the contact element (10, 30, 100) transversely outwardly projecting guide plates (15, 115), and with the guide plates (15, 115) in lateral undercuts (29, 129) on Groove (28, 128) is guided, or that the contact element (10, 30, 30 ', 100) transversely outwardly projecting guide tabs (15, 115), wherein the guide tabs (15, 115) on the web element (17; , 37, 117) in particular projecting on one side, and wherein the contact element (10, 30, 100) with the guide tabs (15, 115) in a single lateral undercut (129) on the groove (28, 128) is guided.

Images